Materials safety is a primary concern for many applications that use Artimus Robotics actuators. This is particularly important when actuators are in close proximity to people, food, or sensitive materials. Luckily, none of the materials used by Artimus Robotics are hazardous and many are commodity materials that have been proven to be safe for a variety of use cases.
Below is some specific information regarding materials that are used in HASEL actuators:
Films for actuator pouches: The basic structure of a HASEL actuator is made from thin polymer films. We use a variety of films depending on the requirements of the application. Our most common materials meet the following criteria:
Does not contain toxic chemicals including but not limited to BPA and phthalates (DEHP, BBP, DINP, DBP, DnHP, DNOP, DIDP)
Compliance with FDA requirements for food contact
Compliance with CPSIA safety rules and government guidelines
Pose no risk of cancer or reproductive hazards under the California Safe Drinking and Toxic Enforcement Act of 1986 (Proposition 65)
Liquid dielectric: Our actuator pouches are filled with an insulating fluid or oil which can be made from a variety of materials. Many materials can be used for this purpose and some of them are even made from vegetable oils which have been developed to be environmentally friendly. Generally, the liquid dielectrics that we use comply with the following:
Non-hazardous substance according to GHS classification
Chemically stable under normal conditions
No acute oral or dermal toxicity
No skin or eye irritation
Conductive electrodes: The electrodes in our actuators are made from a variety of conductive materials. The primary material used is a carbon-based material that is safe and non-toxic.
Note: The information above is not comprehensive and is meant to provide a general overview. The specific safety considerations for materials in your application may vary. Please reach out to info@artimusrobotics.com with specific questions.
About Artimus Robotics
Artimus Robotics designs and manufactures soft electric actuators. The technology was inspired by nature (muscles) and spun out of the University of Colorado. HASEL (Hydraulically Amplified Self-healing ELectrostatic) actuator technology operates when electrostatic forces are applied to a flexible polymer pouch and dielectric liquid to drive shape change in a soft structure. These principles can be applied to achieve a contracting motion, expanding motion, or other complex deformations. For more information, please visit Artimus Robotics or contact info@artimusrobotics.com.
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